University of Nevada, Reno

School Introduction

The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is a fully accredited public university established in 1874. As the oldest institution of higher education in the State of Nevada, the university has a long tradition of academic excellence. Students can choose from world-renowned programs leading to over 70 undergraduate (Bachelor’s- BA, BS) and graduate (Master’s- MA, MS and Doctoral- Ph.D.) degrees offered in the colleges and schools of agriculture, biotechnology and natural resources, business, administration, education, engineering, human and community services, journalism, liberal arts, science, and graduate studies. The university’s approximate 15, 500 students come from all over the United States and represent 1000 international students and faculty from 80 countries.

International Student Applications are accepted throughout the year, but those applying for Undergraduate Program or transferring from another institution within the US should apply by March 1 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester. Keep in mind that fall semester starts in August and spring semester starts in January.

Students applying for Graduate Assistantships should submit applications by February 1 for fall semester and October 1 for spring semester. Graduate Students should contact the department they are applying to for specific department deadlines, additional application requirements, and/ or test scores that may be required.

UNR offers a wide range of Undergraduate and Graduate Programs, including selected Doctoral and Professional Studies.


Reasons students decide to attend the University of Nevada, Reno include:

• Proven reputation for academic excellence
• Affordable tuition and living expenses
• Safe, friendly small city environment, with big city attractions
• 87 percent of full-time faculty members and 79 percent of part-time faculty members hold the highest degrees attainable in their fields, and more than 90 percent of classes are taught by professors, not graduate students
• The student-faculty ratio is 15:1
• International Awards/ Scholarships are offered to International Undergraduate Students
• Kayoko Okumoto Scholarship is a partial ($500) scholarship that is offered to Japanese students to pay for a portion of the out-of-state tuition (non-resident tuition) for the academic year
• Students receive full-time or part-time funding for their studies from academic departments. Over 80% of international graduate students receive Graduate Assistantship, either Teaching Assistantships (TA) or Research Assistantships (RA)
• The Graduate Student Association (GSA) offers $500 travel grants for conferences, research grants of up to $2, 500, computer loans up to $1, 500, and emergency loans for $500 for International Graduate Students. Please refer to GSA website at: http://www.unr.edu/gsa/ for updated information.
• Nevada is among the top 150 research universities in the U.S., according to the Carnegie Foundation
• Research programs in Agriculture, Environmental Sciences, Physics and Biology are ranked in the top 100 of the top 400 National Science Foundation programs
• Listed in U.S. News & World Report among “America’s Best Colleges”
• The Chinese Institute for Higher Education ranks Nevada As one of the top 400 universities — out of 12, 000 universities worldwide
• The Reynolds School of Journalism has produced six Pulitzer Prize winners
• The University’s Hydrologic Sciences Program is ranked among the top 10 graduate programs nationally
• Institution that really cares about students and provides a full range of wonderful support services for international students
• The spectacular Reno-Lake Tahoe area offers a wide range of outdoor recreation and entertainment options
• Undergraduate students may enter Nevada universities after completing the Intensive English Language Center program without having to take TOEFL. IELC provides instruction for students to enhance English skills prior to studies

ESL Program Introduction

ENGLISH REQUIREMENT:

Established in 1982 the Intensive English Language Center (IELC) teaches students the English skills needed to enroll in US colleges and universities and offers courses to students wishing to improve their general English skills. Conditional admission is offered to students who are academically qualified but cannot meet the English requirement for acceptance. Undergraduate students may enter Nevada universities after completing IELC Program without having to take TOEFL.

Background Data

• Number of ESL Students:
• Average Class Size:
• Hours per Week: 20
• Minimum Age:
• Issue I-20: Yes
• Housing Options: Dormitory  Apartment
• School Setting:  Suburban 

Schedule & Fees

International Student Applications are accepted throughout the year, but those applying for Undergraduate Program or transferring from another institution within the US should apply by March 1 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester.

Special Courses & Features

• TOEFL Preparation Courses

Housing/Accommodation Info

DORMITORY/ HOUSING INFORMATION: The University has on-campus housing available with a comprehensive meal plan, and there are many opportunities for students to engage in enrichment experiences. Students can choose from seven dormitories available in walking distance. Regardless of field of study, students report that they are able to connect with faculty and feel that the campus community offers a friendly, supportive, and caring atmosphere.

Contact Info

Office of International Students and Scholars
University of Nevada, Reno
MS 074
Student Services Building, Rm. 120
Reno, Nevada 89557-0144

Tel 775-784-6874
Fax 775-327-5845
Website